Grapefruit Essential Oil- Benefits, Uses, and Origin
Grapefruit (Citrus X paradisi) is an edible fruit from their citrus family. It is a natural cross between a pomelo and orange. These large fruits grow in cluster very much like the grapes, hence the name. It has been a popular element in the breakfast table.
Grapefruit originated from Asia and was only identified as its own species in the 1800s. It was named the forbidden fruit during ancient times, for it was believed that it was the original tree of good and evil in the Garden of Eden.
The tree of the grapefruit grows up to six meters high with large dark and shiny leaves and large white flowers. Its fruits have a smooth to rough skin with a thick peel and a pale greenish color which turns to yellow when it matures. The color of the fruit flesh ranges from white to yellow to orange and red. A mature tree can bear up to 500 to 700 fruits per year. The seeds of the grapefruit are large compared to other citrus fruits. Its pulp also contains a lot of juice.
Grapefruit essential oil has a sweet citrusy scent. Grapefruit essential oil is extracted from the grapefruit peel through cold pressing. The principal components of this oil are limonene, limonene but the myrcene alpha pinene sabinene, geraniol, cadinene, and citral.
Benefits of using grapefruit essential oil
An antibacterial agent
Grapefruit essential oil has been proven to work against certain strains of bacteria such as E. coli and salmonella. These bacteria can be harmful and can easily enter the body through the food ingested. It also works against bacteria that causes the development of acne.
The oil was also found to be effective in combating certain strains of fungi such as Candida albicans which can affect and we can the immune system.
For healthy skin
Grapefruit is among the many citrus oils that are used in soaps and lotions. Its antibacterial property has been found to help treat cuts, wounds, and several insect bites. It protects them from getting infected.
Because of its antioxidant content and uplifting scent, grapefruit essential oil is also used in facial creams and lotions.
A blend of rosemary oil and grapefruit oil was found to help alleviate the negative effects of various irritants on the skin.
Anti-inflammatory
Grapefruit essential oil’s limonene content helps reduce inflammation of blood vessels which promotes a better blood flow. Grapefruit oil promotes proper circulation which helps ease muscle pains, headaches, and cramps during menstruation.
Promotes healthy hair
Because of its antibacterial properties, grapefruit oil can be added to shampoos and conditioners to help cleanse the hair and scalp. It also leaves the hair shinier and full of volume.
Aids digestion
Grapefruit oil has been proven to help detoxify the digestive system. It helps combat bad bacteria in the intestines and promotes the growth of good bacteria.
Helps reduce stress
Grapefruit essential oils soothing and uplifting scent creates a relaxing atmosphere. It is used in aromatherapy to fight signs of stress and relieve anxiety. This calming effect is attributed to its limonene content. It helps lift the mood, boost mental alertness, and reduce mental fatigue, brain fog, and sleepiness.
Helps in weight loss
Inhaling or applying grapefruit essential oil helps suppress appetite, thus lowering cravings and hunger. On some studies, it was found that grapefruit oil’s scent stimulates the breakdown of fat tissues. To reduce cravings, a few drops of grapefruit essential oil can be added the drinking water or massage on the chest and wrists. The limonene content of grapefruit essential oil helps balance the blood sugar level in the body, this results in a reduced craving for sugar and sweets. Although grapefruit essential oil can help promote weight loss, it should still be combined with proper diet and exercise.
Relief for hangover
Grapefruit essential oil helps detoxify the body and increase the frequency of urination. This is helpful to get the alcohol out of the system and balance the hormonal and blood sugar level that were altered because of its consumption. It also stimulates the gallbladder and the liver, which helps relieve headaches and prevent sluggishness that accompanies a hangover.
Flavor enhancer
Grapefruit oil can be added to meals, drinks and even water for the hint of citrus flavor. It also gives you a feeling of being full after eating, so cravings are eventually lowered.
Eliminate unwanted odor
Grapefruit essential oil can help get rid of foul or unwanted odors, especially in the kitchen and bathrooms. A blend of grapefruit oil with lemon and orange essential oils can clear the house of order causing bacteria. This can be used in a diffuser or can be added to water and sprayed on countertops, floors, and household appliances.
Safety tips and precautions
Before using grapefruit or grapefruit oil on diets, it is best to seek the advice of a medical professional. Although it is considered safe, grapefruit essential oil may interact with certain medications such as antidepressants and drugs for controlling blood pressure.
It is also recommended to avoid sun exposure after using grapefruit oil on the skin. It is best to dilute the oil in carrier oils and do a skin patch test to check for any reactions.
Although used for weight loss, it is not advised to consume only large doses of the oil as it can have negative effects on the digestive system and is potentially toxic. One to two drops of grapefruit oil for consumption is enough.